Multidimensional Vulnerability Assessment for Floods: Evidence From Flood-Prone Areas of Bangladesh

Abstract

Bangladesh is a flood-prone country, yet studies on multidimensional vulnerability assessments related to floods remain limited. This study evaluates social, economic, physical, institutional, attitudinal, and gender vulnerabilities in Paschim Machimpur and Purba Machimpur, two rural flood-prone areas in Sunamganj District. Primary data were collected from 487 households through structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, the Mann–Whitney U-test, and a composite vulnerability index. The analysis reveals disparities in household characteristics, including size, age, education, and the presence of vulnerable members such as children and older people. Economic assessments show high dependency on agriculture and fishing, with many households lacking defined income sources and flood insurance. Physical vulnerabilities include poor housing materials and inadequate sanitation. Institutional vulnerabilities highlight deficiencies in early warning systems and flood preparedness. Attitudinal assessments reveal a lack of confidence in authorities' flood risk reduction programs, and gender vulnerabilities show women are disproportionately affected due to social and cultural factors. Despite similar overall vulnerability scores between the two areas, Paschim Machimpur shows higher composite vulnerability. The study calls for enhanced community engagement, better communication of flood risks, and the development of more robust early warning systems to reduce flood vulnerabilities.